SmartLess "Jeff Daniels"
Oct 4, 2021
This week features Jeff Daniels, the acclaimed actor famous for his roles in "Dumb and Dumber" and the Emmy-winning "Newsroom." He shares insights about navigating the entertainment world, discussing the balance between directing and acting. Jeff reflects on his experiences with legends like Cagney and Forman, highlighting the influence of improvisation in his craft. He also touches on the emotional challenges of family life in Hollywood and the joy found in creative expression, ultimately reminding us to add sparkle to our mundane Mondays.
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Episode notes
Something Wild
- Will Arnett recounts meeting Jeff Daniels and expresses admiration for his film, 'Something Wild'.
- Arnett shares how he used Daniels' character in the film as a touchstone for his own acting.
Improv and Inspiration
- Jeff Daniels discusses working with Jonathan Demme on 'Something Wild,' where improv was encouraged.
- He talks about being inspired by actors like Dick Van Dyke and Jack Lemmon for his comedic approach.
Working with Cagney
- Jeff Daniels shares an anecdote about working with James Cagney on 'Ragtime'.
- He describes Cagney's initial struggles and his eventual transformation on set.
